Chap"i*ter (?), n. [OF. chapitel, F. chapiteau, from L. capitellum, dim. of caput head. Cf. Capital, Chapter.] 1. (Arch.) A capital [Obs.] See Chapital. Ex. xxxvi. 38.

2. (Old Eng. Law) A summary in writing of such matters as are to be inquired of or presented before justices in eyre, or justices of assize, or of the peace, in their sessions; -- also called articles. Jacob.